Antique Earrings 18k gold diamonds French dormeuse sleepers floral drops (7238)

Antique Victorian dangle drop earrings. 18k gold, rose cut diamonds. Made in France, circa 1880-90.
Independent appraisal.

Measurements: Weight is 5.1 grams. Approximately 1 inch (3cm) long, not including wires. Approximately 3ct diamonds.

Description : Known as Dormeuse in France, these earrings are called Sleepers in English because they are so comfortable that you need never remove them and you can sleep wearing them.
This is an unusual and especially elegant pair of dormeuse earrings in that it has 3 stations, when there are usually only 2. Surmounts consisting of round, rose-cut diamonds, together weighing approximatley 1.37ct, are held in white metal prongs that we tested as platinum (see below). White metal was used to show diamonds off to best advantage in candlelight.
Loops connect the surmounts to the tiny central station and then the larger bottom drops. The latter consist of central rosecut diamonds surrounded by a ring of smaller stones forming little daisy flowers. The French were very fond of this design, known to them as Marguerite (Daisy in English). The bottom sections swing and sway freely as the wearer moves, adding interest and drawing the eye to the earrings.
Hinged clip backs.
Highly versatile, these earrings can be worn with any outfit from jeans and casual to smart work or party.
Very well made. A go-to choice of jewelry.

Marks and Metal: French eagle head marks on wires indicate 18k gold, made in Paris. We tested the white metal small prongs with electronic Auracle AGT3, which showed them as platinum.

Condition: Good with minor wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.